Why is Cruising the Kimberley with an Australian Operator a Bit More Expensive?

With over 35 years of experience exploring the Kimberley, Coral Expeditions was the first expedition cruise line to take guests into this untouched wilderness. That kind of legacy isn’t just a number—it’s a deep understanding of tides, terrain, and timing that only decades of experience can provide.

Wouldn’t you prefer to discover Australia with Australians? Just like hiring a local guide when you’re overseas, there’s nothing quite like seeing your own backyard through the eyes of those who know it best. Our guests consistently tell us that what made their trip memorable wasn’t just the landscape—it was the passionate, warm-hearted Australians who brought it to life.

Another stand out in our opinion is the Coral Expeditions’ unique Xplorers; custom-designed for remote exploration. They’re easy to board directly from the main deck, feature shaded canopies, comfortable backrests, onboard toilets, and a PA system so guides can share their stories with everyone. This means more time exploring, even in the most remote corners of the Kimberley.

They don’t run on a fixed script—they run on nature’s clock. As a true expedition line, Coral Expeditions tailors each journey to ensure you’re in the right place at the right time, like catching the phenomenal tides of Montgomery Reef at just the right moment, or an early start to make the most of a morning mist at sea.

Thanks to their status as an Australian-flagged line, Coral Expeditions holds a special permit to traverse the famed Horizontal Falls—something only a handful of operators can offer, and only until the end of the 2026 season. Even better? This experience is run by our own crew—not a third-party provider.

With no more than 120 passengers, you won’t just travel—you’ll connect. Whether it’s sharing a drink at sunset or chatting with the expedition crew, there’s a genuine sense of camaraderie and Australian hospitality onboard.